Theosophical Independence Vol. 7 - 5   July 2008
The Measure of Theosophical Independence

  In the second chapter of The Bhagavad-Gita, Arjuna asks Krishna to describe the characteristics of the wise human being. In this issue, we will consider the measure of the human being who has completed the task of becoming theosophically indepen-dent. This kind of independence cannot be imposed or restrained by other beings or external circumstances. Theosophical independence is a state of mind achieved by training which frees the mind from sensations, passions and ideas that enslave it while cultivating those aspirations and ideals which give it its broadest possible field of thought and action.
 
  The first mark of theosophical independence is observed in that human being who has concentrated all study, thought and action on the common goal of destroying selfishness. The concern and action for self is the cause of all suffering. By observing and analyzing all actions of the body, speech and mind, one can recog-nize whether those activities are aimed at reinforcing concern for the personal self or eliminating it. The actions that reinforce selfishness can be seen in those who strive for success in mundane concerns or greatness in wealth, power and reputation in physical life. Yet every action on this plane can be performed skillfully with a higher purpose that eliminates selfishness.

  The second consideration is to recognize who is the best judge of theosophical independence. Other people often judge us favorably when they witness a few good actions or when we do a few things that please them.  However, considering what was mentioned before, even apparently ethical and disciplined behavior can be in error if performed with the wrong motive.
Other people often fail to understand the depth of character of another human being even if they have known that person for many years. The best witness of one’s character is the individual. So, how does one know one’s own character? The principal indicator of your independent character is that you have not become the object of your disapproval. You should be able to feel that you could not have done anything more to act in a way free of personal concern and personal bondage to the results of action.  

  People all over the world celebrate their independence and freedom, so it should not surprise us that continued joyfulness of mind is another indicator of theosophical independence. The joy comes from the realization that whatever comes, one is prepared. No matter what adverse conditions arise, one is not disturbed but thinks, “I can react appropriately with knowledge and the right motive.” When a person acts with the motive of reinforcing the personal self, everything they do is desirable to them. When undesirable events occur, they are disturbed. The one who is independent of the desire to enhance the personal self is not disturbed when “undesirable” events occur. Their minds are calm and joyful even in the face of adversity. It is one thing to assume the independent state of mind in preparation for a foreseen unfavorable event, but it is another matter to respond appropriately when events occur unexpectedly, without warning.

  A good indicator of the completeness of our training in theosophical independence is the ability to respond instantly and appropriately when unexpected adversities arise. Every adversity is met with the joy and warmth of one who is free of personal concern and devoted to the interests of others.  Unfavorable circumstances are no longer obstructions but automatically enhance the conviction of one’s highest ideals of universal brotherhood and the realization of the Self in each and all.

From QUESTIONS ANSWERED AT AN INFORMAL “OCEAN” CLASS

Q. — Since we are part of the whole, is the real man — in any state or condition, or in any position of life — ever independent?

Ans. — Don’t you think that depends upon the meaning that we give to the word “independent”? If we look around, we shall find this, that and the other one saying, “Thank Heaven, I am independent.”  He has had a job and now he is in business for himself, perhaps. Independence, we think, means irresponsibility — I can do what I please and nobody can stop me.” No being in the universe is ever independent in that sense.

Independence means the knowledge of Nature and how to deal with it. A truly independent being is the one who has the fullest recognition of his responsibility to the whole of Nature and who acts in accordance with that recognition. If we get rid of the idea of irresponsibility as connected with the word “independence,” we can see that the Masters of Wisdom are the only independent beings there are, because they alone of all the beings in manifestation recognize and live up to their responsibility to the whole, being consciously a part of the whole.

Q. — Mr. Judge once called the Theosophical Movement “that Universal Lodge of Free and Independent Theosophists which embraces every friend of of the human race.” Just what is meant by “Free and Independent Theosophists”?

Ans. — Those who are not bound by the prejudices of race, creed, sect, condition and organization. Those who know that “a man’s a man for all that” —  a man’s a man, regardless of race, creed, sect and condition. Such are the free and independent Theosophists.
   
Quotes from Others

The difference between school and life? In school, you're taught a lesson and then given a test.  In life, you're given a test that teaches you a lesson.  -  Tom Bodett


If you will call your troubles experiences, and remember that every experience develops some latent force within you, you will grow vigorous and happy, however adverse your circumstances may seem to be.   -  John Heywood  
      
There are no failures - just experiences and your reactions to them.  - Tom Krause 
 
The only source of knowledge is experience.   -  Albert Einstein       

One of the most important lessons that experience teaches is that, on the whole, success depends more upon character than upon either intellect or fortune.
     - William  Lecky

      “Theosophical Independence”  is produced monthly by Associates of The United Lodge of Theosophists in Philadelphia.  Comments, questions and contributions for publication may be sent to The United Lodge of Theosophists, 1917 Walnut Street,   Philadelphia, PA  19103.

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